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Anu

Anu Krishna  |1595 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Nov 01, 2022

Anu Krishna is a mind coach and relationship expert.
The co-founder of Unfear Changemakers LLP, she has received her neuro linguistic programming training from National Federation of NeuroLinguistic Programming, USA, and her energy work specialisation from the Institute for Inner Studies, Manila.
She is an executive member of the Indian Association of Adolescent Health.... more
SJ Question by SJ on Nov 01, 2022Hindi
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Relationship

I am very stressed these days.
I am in love with a married man. He happens to be my colleague whom I met in 2020.
Initially it was just a senior junior relation where he would help me in official matters.
At the same time, I was recovering from a break up followed by severe health complications.

Slowly, I started spending time with him, in the office only talking about office issues then my personal life.
He too shared some of his and eventually I started developing feelings for him. But since I knew he was married I would always maintain that distance.
I just wanted a healthy friendship but may be my personal turmoil was to the extent that I needed an emotional support and so I confided in him.
He too would understand me, give me support and I could feel that he likes me.

One day I confessed my feelings and he too reciprocated. He had told me earlier that he is living a compromised married life where there is no emotional connection. However, he will continue with it as his wife is dependent on him and I said I don’t want to break a family.
But I have fallen in love with him. His presence has given me such solace I cannot describe.
I don’t want to break a home. So, I have started maintaining distance as well but I really miss him. I feel I lost a friend in the process.

Ans:

Dear SJ,

This is something that I have been seeing lately with a lot of people.

Something lacks within your current relationship and to fulfil that you look for it elsewhere only to realise that things have gotten out of hands.

In your case, love has blossomed in and suddenly now you have realized that it might cause a flutter within two relationships.

He has made it clear that he wants to be with his wife which should give you an idea not to make any more emotional investment. You will end up getting hurt even more if you do.

Time for you to start feeling solace and gaining better self-esteem by valuing yourself more. You don’t need anyone for you to love yourself, do you?

So, stop giving this so much importance. He was there when you needed him and vice-versa. Now, that things are getting a little complicated, time to revise the way you think and act.

You don’t need to lose a friend if the feelings that you have for him can be healthier and not draining on either of you.

If not, maybe you need to think how you can handle this agony better. Be your own friend first and then you start making better choices on who to let into your life.

Possible? Yes, start now…

All the best!

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Ravi

Ravi Mittal  |584 Answers  |Ask -

Dating, Relationships Expert - Answered on Oct 17, 2023

Asked by Anonymous - Oct 17, 2023Hindi
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Relationship
I am married working women .supportive hubby & my lovely children complete my family . I have been feeling intense infatuation with one of my married collegue.he used to help me a lot in office related issues. He used to complement me a lot for very normal things in front of others, not for looks but my working & way oc handling things. I was uneasy about that initially but started enjoying the attention later. But I dont know when I started liking him & Always wanted to be around ...He is younger to me and I am fully aware that nothing can happen between us. Than one day He bypassed me and for his own fault at work , he manipulated things and asked a favor for me from our team leader showing he is helping me...While in same situation when he was wrong I once sorted things on my own and did not make conplaint to team leader. Now i am feeling cheated and while working I have to see him everyday. What to do? How to remain and look normal. I feel weak in front of him and I dont want to keep any relation with him. But I still feel good & comfortable when he is around. its so weird.
Ans: Dear Anonymous,

I'm sorry to hear that you're going through this difficult situation. It's not uncommon for people who have been married for a long time to feel this way. It mostly happens because the marriage is now part of your routine while your colleague seems like a breath of fresh air. But as you yourself mentioned, it is nothing but mere infatuation.

Do not beat yourself up for it. It will pass as all infatuations do. I suggest establishing some boundaries so that, even unintentionally, you do not cross them. Maintain a professional demeanor. But most importantly, take some time to reflect on what is missing from your marriage that led you to develop feelings for someone else. A loving and healthy marriage would keep you emotionally fulfilled enough to never look for happiness outside of it. Lastly, remind yourself why you fell in love with your husband and remember that love and commitment are not based on a mere choice; it is a conscious decision you make every day.

Best Wishes!

..Read more

Kanchan

Kanchan Rai  |586 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Nov 15, 2024

Relationship
Hello I am a 40 year old married female. Off late I started feeling attracted to my married Male Friend of last 5 years. I love my husband a lot and can never think of betraying him. But I feel happy in the company of this friend of mine. He sort of has the qualities i always wanted from my husband and as we all know not everyone can possess every quality. I was aware about his liking towards me like he used to flirt with me someway or other also recently he admitted the same to me that he likes me since our first meeting. As we are family friends and stay in the same building, we keep meeting often with family and sometimes only two of us as we like spending time talking to each other. In our recent visit we hugged each other in the rush of emotions. We both got just blown away by the surreal feeling. We admitted the same to each other. After this meeting we kept messaging each other the whole day and so on for next few days and suddenly one day he said he fears this might ruin our family friendship and started ignoring and maintaining distance, he stopped messaging or calling me without discussing anything. But now I am attracted to him so much that I can not take his absence or apathy towards me and want to have cordial relations like we were before, when it was not vocal between us that we like each other. I am not able to adjust to the fact that the person who used to admire and respect me so much and wanted to have a lifelong friendship can become suddenly so distant. I want an advise whether I am wrong in expecting atleast a normal relation like friendship to continue between us. As we have never crossed our boundaries and hugging once will not count as betrayal. Please guide I want him back as before.
Ans: a close relationship with someone outside your marriage, especially when emotions are involved, introduces challenges. You’re aware of this already, and it seems your friend has also recognized the complexities, likely explaining his sudden need for distance. Often, when feelings come to the surface, they carry a weight that makes people reconsider their boundaries to protect the larger relationships at play—in this case, both of your marriages and family dynamics. This pullback doesn’t negate his admiration or the value he places on your friendship but rather reflects the reality of the situation and the need to guard against further complications.

You might find it helpful to explore what exactly you’re drawn to in your friend’s qualities. It could be that he reflects an aspect of yourself you wish to bring into your own relationship. Identifying these qualities is powerful, as it can help you shape a conversation with your husband, potentially bringing deeper fulfillment to your marriage. Many couples find new dimensions in their relationship when they openly discuss what they yearn for and ways to bring those qualities to life together. While it may feel challenging, these conversations can foster intimacy and growth.

It’s also worth noting that maintaining your friend’s respect and allowing him space is likely the best way to preserve your connection long-term, even if it feels painful right now. His distance might ultimately help both of you return to a place of friendship, but pushing for that too soon might complicate things further. In the meantime, remember that it’s natural to feel a loss or a longing for a friend’s company when circumstances shift. Practicing self-compassion and care can be grounding during times like this, as can seeking other outlets for support, such as close friends, hobbies, or moments of solitude that allow you to process your emotions.

Time and patience may help bring this friendship back to a more natural and comfortable place, but focusing on your marriage and yourself will allow you to stay true to your values and find a sense of peace, regardless of the ultimate outcome with your friend.

..Read more

Latest Questions
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8332 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 12, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - May 11, 2025
Money
Sir, i have an outstanding home loan of 4.27 lakhs. But, my job prospects are unsure. I have a job offer of prob 25000/- month and another which pays 20000/-. I lost my job this month. I had it for the past two years. I have a short fall of 10000/- this month to pay this month's EMI. Pls advise what i can do for this month and close my home loan, as soon as possible.
Ans: I understand how stressful this can feel. You're being responsible by asking for advice early. That’s very good.

Let me help you with a clear, step-by-step action plan — both for this month’s EMI issue and to close your home loan early, without burden.

Immediate Steps for This Month's EMI Shortfall
You have a Rs.10,000 shortfall for this month's EMI.

 

First, don’t ignore the EMI due date.

 

Late EMI can impact your credit score.

 

It may lead to penalty or default mark.

 

Call or visit your bank and explain the situation openly.

 

Request a 1-month moratorium or rescheduling of EMI.

 

Some banks allow EMI holiday for 1–2 months.

 

You need to request it before missing payment.

 

If you have any fixed deposits, RD, or gold, you can use or pledge them.

 

Gold loan is fast, safe, and cheaper than personal loan.

 

Avoid credit card debt or personal loan at high interest.

 

Borrow from close family if possible, with clear repayment promise.

 

Keep receipts of any delayed EMI or late charge.

 

Job Offers: Pick with Long-Term Lens
You have two offers: Rs.25,000 and Rs.20,000.

 

Choose the one with more job security and stability.

 

If Rs.25,000 job is risky, then Rs.20,000 with more stability is better.

 

You can’t afford another break in income.

 

Ask the employer clearly about probation, confirmation, etc.

 

Monthly Budget Rework: Cut and Save
For now, cut all non-essential expenses.

 

Rent, groceries, loan EMI, and utility bills are priority.

 

Pause shopping, travel, and eating out.

 

This will help you save Rs.3000–Rs.5000 per month.

 

That money can go towards EMI or home loan closure.

 

Closing the Home Loan Early: Action Plan
Your loan balance: Rs.4.27 lakhs
You want to close it fast. That is a wise goal.

 

Let’s build a loan closure plan in 4 simple steps.

 

1. Emergency Buffer First
Keep at least Rs.20,000–Rs.30,000 cash or liquid fund as emergency.

 

This is for any gap in salary, medical need, or job delay.

 

Don’t use this money for loan closure now.

 

2. Choose EMI + Extra Payment Strategy
Continue regular EMI without delay.

 

On top of EMI, start small part-payments monthly or quarterly.

 

Even Rs.3,000 extra per month brings down interest fast.

 

No need for full pre-closure immediately.

 

Small consistent part-payments give same benefit over 1–2 years.

 

3. Any Bonuses or One-Time Inflows
If you get bonus, gift, or freelancing income, direct it fully to loan.

 

Don’t spend on purchases till loan is cleared.

 

Each Rs.10,000 prepayment will reduce interest and shorten loan term.

 

4. Track Loan Balance Every 3 Months
Visit bank or use online account.

 

Get latest principal balance.

 

After every extra payment, ensure it reflects as principal reduction.

 

Ask for revised amortisation schedule if needed.

 

Should You Use Investment or Insurance Money?
Let me clarify with care.

 

If you have any LIC endowment or ULIP policy, check surrender value.

 

These give very low return and poor insurance.

 

If they are investment-linked, not pure protection, consider surrendering.

 

Reinvest that amount wisely to grow or reduce home loan.

 

But don’t touch term insurance or health insurance.

 

They are protection tools, not savings.

 

Building Your Income Stability
You just lost your job, but you are actively taking offers. Well done.

 

Also explore freelancing, tuition, weekend work.

 

This can help close your Rs.10,000 monthly gap faster.

 

Talk to old colleagues or clients for referral work.

 

Mental Peace and Confidence
Financial stress can feel heavy. But your approach is strong.

 

You’re solving things early, without panic. That’s admirable.

 

Once you stabilise income for 3–4 months, increase loan prepayment.

 

Closing home loan early gives mental peace and better credit score.

 

That opens better financial doors in future.

 

Final Insights
Inform bank early about this month’s EMI issue.

 

Don’t delay communication or EMI. That’s very important.

 

Use gold loan or family support for this month, if needed.

 

Select stable job over higher salary.

 

Keep Rs.20,000–Rs.30,000 for emergency fund.

 

Start part-prepayments monthly or quarterly.

 

Track loan balance and shorten term over next 12–18 months.

 

Surrender poor-performing ULIP or LIC plans and redirect to loan.

 

Avoid high-cost personal loans or credit card EMI.

 

Stay emotionally strong and focused.

 

This difficult time will pass. Your discipline will help you come out stronger.

 

Best Regards,
 
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
 
Chief Financial Planner,
 
www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8332 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 12, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - May 12, 2025
Money
I want to invest 15 lakhs for a period of approx ten years
Ans: Investing Rs.15 lakhs for 10 years is a wise move. You’re planning for long-term growth, and that shows financial maturity.

Understanding Your Investment Objective
You are investing for a 10-year time horizon.

 

Your goal could be wealth creation, retirement, child’s education or any long-term need.

 

This long-term window gives you good room for growth-based investing.

 

You are not chasing short-term profits. That is very good.

 

It shows patience and clarity. Both are key for long-term success.

 

Deciding Your Investment Style
Rs.15 lakhs is a significant amount.

 

Let’s divide it smartly into different categories.

 

We won’t go with one single product.

 

Instead, we will diversify for safety and growth.

 

We will use mutual funds, small savings schemes, and emergency allocation.

 

This approach reduces risk and balances return.

 

Why Mutual Funds Are a Core Part
Mutual funds offer professional management.

 

They spread your money across many companies.

 

That helps reduce single-company risk.

 

With mutual funds, your money gets expert handling.

 

Over ten years, this becomes very valuable.

 

You get compounding growth and liquidity also.

 

Active Funds vs Index Funds: Which is Better?
Index funds copy market indices.

 

They don’t try to beat the market.

 

That means average returns only.

 

In volatile markets, index funds give no protection.

 

They blindly follow market up and down.

 

Actively managed funds adjust the portfolio wisely.

 

The fund manager can reduce risk in falling markets.

 

They also select stronger companies for better results.

 

So, active funds offer better decision-making.

 

For long-term wealth, they are more dependable.

 

Why Regular Funds Are Better Than Direct Funds
Direct funds may look cheaper, but come with hidden risks.

 

No advisor is available for support in direct funds.

 

You will manage it fully on your own.

 

That can lead to wrong fund choices.

 

Most investors don’t track funds regularly.

 

You may miss changes in performance or rating.

 

Regular funds come through MFDs with CFP expertise.

 

You get regular monitoring and rebalancing.

 

That improves fund performance and suits your goals.

 

Hand-holding by a Certified Financial Planner avoids costly errors.

 

Long-term success needs guidance, not guesswork.

 

Taxation Rules You Must Know
For equity mutual funds, LTCG above Rs.1.25 lakh taxed at 12.5%.

 

STCG is taxed at 20%.

 

For debt mutual funds, gains are taxed as per your tax slab.

 

This means tax planning becomes very important.

 

Your Certified Financial Planner will structure funds to reduce tax burden.

 

Also, investing via Systematic Transfer Plan (STP) helps lower STCG tax impact.

 

Emergency Fund: Your Safety Net
Before investing the full Rs.15 lakhs, keep some for emergency.

 

At least Rs.1.5 to 2 lakhs should stay in liquid fund or savings.

 

This helps during job loss or urgent medical need.

 

It avoids breaking your 10-year investments midway.

 

Asset Allocation Strategy: Balanced and Wise
Let’s allocate Rs.15 lakhs in smart buckets.

 

Around 70% to equity mutual funds.

 

20% to debt mutual funds or small savings.

 

10% for emergency and ultra short-term needs.

 

This keeps your returns high and your risks low.

 

Type of Funds to Consider
For equity, you may go for large-cap and flexi-cap mutual funds.

 

Multi-cap funds and focused equity funds are also good.

 

These categories offer growth with managed risk.

 

For debt part, go for dynamic bond or short-duration funds.

 

They offer better returns than fixed deposits.

 

They also provide some stability during equity volatility.

 

SIP and STP: Smart Ways to Enter Market
Don't invest full Rs.15 lakhs in one go.

 

Use Systematic Transfer Plan (STP) from a liquid fund.

 

Shift monthly into equity funds over 6–12 months.

 

This reduces risk of market timing.

 

You will enter at different levels and average cost.

 

SIPs are also good if investing from monthly income.

 

Monitoring and Review: Important for 10-Year Goals
Investments are not one-time work.

 

Review every 6 months with your Certified Financial Planner.

 

Rebalance if fund underperforms or if your goals change.

 

Stay updated on fund rating, portfolio and expense ratio.

 

Insurance Check: Protect Before You Grow
Before investing, make sure you have term insurance.

 

Health insurance is also very important.

 

Don't mix insurance with investment.

 

If you hold ULIPs or endowment policies, review them now.

 

Most likely they give poor returns.

 

If they are not 100% protection based, consider surrendering them.

 

Reinvest that amount in mutual funds for better wealth creation.

 

Goal-Based Planning: Brings Clarity
Assign every portion of your Rs.15 lakh to a goal.

 

Maybe Rs.5 lakh for child education.

 

Rs.7 lakh for your retirement fund.

 

Rs.3 lakh for house renovation or car after 10 years.

 

This helps track progress clearly.

 

You feel more committed to staying invested.

 

Emotional Discipline Is Key
Don’t panic when markets fall.

 

Stay focused on your 10-year goal.

 

Avoid frequent switching between funds.

 

Ups and downs are part of market behaviour.

 

Long-term investors are always rewarded.

 

Role of a Certified Financial Planner
Helps create custom portfolio for your risk level.

 

Gives unbiased fund recommendations.

 

Tracks tax laws and market changes for you.

 

Keeps you on track with timely reviews.

 

Acts like a health doctor for your money life.

 

You avoid costly mistakes and missed opportunities.

 

Final Insights
Rs.15 lakhs invested wisely can create serious wealth in 10 years.

 

Your focus on long-term is very appreciable.

 

Use mutual funds as the main wealth-building tool.

 

Stay away from direct and index funds.

 

Let a CFP guide your journey with logic and planning.

 

Reinvesting surrender value of poor insurance plans also helps.

 

Ensure your family is protected with term and health insurance.

 

Review your progress often but don’t panic during market dips.

 

Stick to your plan, trust the process, and allow time to work for you.

 

Wealth creation is a marathon, not a sprint.

 

Best Regards,
 
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
 
Chief Financial Planner,
 
www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

...Read more

DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Investment in securities market are subject to market risks. Read all the related document carefully before investing. The securities quoted are for illustration only and are not recommendatory. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information and as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision. RediffGURUS is an intermediary as per India's Information Technology Act.

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